OSHA Finds Bridge Contractor at Fault for Crane Accident
Aug. 2, 2004 • Federal OSHA investigators have determined the Feb. 16 crane accident that killed four ironworkers on the I-280 bridge in
Fru-Con was cited for four willful violations of federal workplace safety and health standards. According to OSHA, willful violations are the most severe because violators know that a hazardous condition exists and make no effort to eliminate it. Fines for each violation can be anywhere from $5,000 to $70,000.
OSHA's investigation found Fru-Con failed to sufficiently anchor the crane to the concrete pier segments and pier caps. OSHA also found that the company failed to use any anchoring bars for the rear legs of the crane and used an insufficient number of anchoring bars for the front legs. Fru-Con has 15 working days from receipt of the citations to appeal before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.
“This tragic accident could have and should have been prevented,” said OSHA Administrator John Henshaw. “We must ensure that employers protect their workers from occupational hazards, so injury and illness rates continue to decline. The significant fines of $280,000 proposed in this case demonstrate the commitment of this Administration to protecting the health and safety of
